Upgrade of 3G network to meet increased data usage in Japan Tweet

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Softbank Mobile had the largest new subscriptions in Japan in 2009
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Recent data traffic boost by the use of smart phones
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Invests in upgrade and enhancement of mobile broadband network

Japanese mobile users are among the most advanced in the world when it comes to consuming digital content over mobile networks. They enjoy not only video and music on the move, but also e-mail, banking, shopping, health and security services - and even manga comics.

"We have Japan's largest increase in the number of new mobile subscriptions," says Junichi Miyakawa, Executive Vice President, Director and CTO of Softbank Mobile. "Data traffic is growing rapidly every month. In order to meet this increased demand and to ensure continued user quality, we have decided to invest in an upgrade of our mobile broadband network."

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) is selected as the main supplier to upgrade Softbank Mobile's network. Ericsson is delivering RBS6000 HSPA/LTE multi standard base stations and the rollout services to upgrade the network with multi-carrier HSPA technology which provides network speeds up to 42Mbps for the most data dense areas in Japan: the Tokyo, Kansai and Tokai (Nagoya) regions.

Fredrik Alatalo, President of Ericsson Japan, says: "Ericsson is proud to have been selected by Softbank Mobile for this important project. To satisfy Softbank Mobile's demanding consumers, who want to use the latest internet applications on mobile phones, is a challenge, especially in the most traffic dense areas like Tokyo. Our mission is to ensure our long-lasting partner Softbank Mobile a network that provides efficient and attractive services for advanced consumers."

The upgrade starts in the first quarter of 2010 and is planned to be completed within the year.

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